Recruiting is a big game of dominoes with a little "Hunger Games" thrown in for good measure. One school gets eliminated, another implodes. A coach goes on the hot seat in Seattle. USC rises from the ashes. One kid visits and another stays home.

The entire process has twists and turns, reversals and surprises. It gets a little ruthless, with a few underhanded moves and last-minute steals.

And the Oregon Ducks play this game as well as anyone, with a thorough, methodical approach that starts with a consistent philosophy, coaching continuity, great facilities and a winning tradition.